ROCKFORD, IL — Verizon Wireless has activated a new cell site in Rockford, Ill., which improves voice and data coverage around the CherryVale Mall area.

The new cell site, which is equipped with a permanent backup generator for times of emergency, empowers more Verizon Wireless customers to rely on their wireless phones for social networking, Internet browsing, downloading apps, exchanging email and text, picture and video messaging as well as making calls.

“Our customers rely on their wireless devices for virtually all of their communication needs,” said T.J. Fox, region president, Verizon Wireless. “Ten years ago, ensuring they could make clear calls and stay connected was our top priority. That still is and always will be important. Additionally though, we closely monitor all other network usage, such as Internet browsing and downloading apps or music, and make improvements accordingly, so that our customers’ experience on our network is seamless regardless of how they want to use their phone.”

In addition to the ongoing investment in its 3G network, Verizon Wireless has been rapidly building out its 4G LTE network, currently covering more than 160 million Americans in 143 metropolitan areas, including Rockford, with plans to bring coverage to more than 185 million Americans by the end of 2011. By 2013, Verizon Wireless will have full nationwide 4G LTE coverage everywhere the Verizon 3G network is available today. Visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte for more information about Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network.

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE average data rates are 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2 to 5 Mbps on the uplink in real-world, loaded network environments. These speeds are significantly faster than Verizon Wireless and other wireless providers’ current or promised 3G network speeds.

Verizon Wireless has invested more than $65 billion since it was formed—$5.7 billion on average every year—to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. Since 2000, Verizon Wireless has invested more than $1.6 billion on improvements to its wireless network in Illinois.